STORYLINE: This is the story of a young hero boy who boards on a powerful magical train that’s headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus’ home on Christmas Eve night. During this ride, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery which shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. (IMDb)

    Cinenas have had a tradition of projecting holiday films since celluloid has been turning.  Christmas in Connecticut (1945), It’s A Wonderful Life (1946), Miracle on 34th St (1947) are some of the earliest classics. Flash forward to the eighties, both  Scrooged (1988) and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) had audiences laughing out loud. The 2000s have had releases such as Elf and Love Actually, both from 2003.  Of course my favorite holiday film is 2004’s The Polar Express.

    This past weekend, my local theater if choice, kicked off its holiday programming with a screening of the animated classic.  I eagerly made my way through the concessions line, to get my customary medium buttered soaked popcorn and large ice less soda, before heading to my traditional seat, in the front row, right pocket corner.  Speaking of traditions, this is a film I view every holiday season, theatrically, or my Blu ray.  For those who read my blog regularly, you know I am always am in favor of going to the theater for a film.

   Whether I am watching my copy of The Polar Express at home, or in the theater the animation is gorgeous!  Many of the images from the book are captured in the movie.  I love when thay happens.

  Where the film stands out, in a theatrical setting, are in the moments of excitement.  When the train makes its grand entrances, slides across the ice, or when Santa’s slay lifts off, for instance. Seeing these moments, again, on the big screen are breathtaking. It was a thrill to see them unfold, in front of me. 

   Adding to the magic of the movie was seeing the ‘Hot Chocolate’ dance number performed.  Simply put, it’s a fun part of the feature.

   Finally, to answer the question you did not know to ask: yes I put on my elf hat when I went to see ti view the film.  It added a bit of fun to the movie.  Throughout the holiday season I will be switching between that and my Santa hay as I go to the movies, especially when Elf plays in a few weeks. 

   I have liked this movie ever since I first saw it, theatrically, twenty one years ago.  I have seen it many times since, both at home and in theaters.  I still love watching it.

   Until next time I will see you at the movies!